Arts & Music

Book by Its Cover(s): Easy Star All-Stars' Radiodread

Radiodread's appeal is not so much in its cover (art) as in its covers: a track-by-track reggae replication of Radiohead's OK Computer. Reggae covers are nothing new, but Radiohead? Can this possibly work? Most everyone should recognize the big names on the back -- Sugar Minott ("Exit Music (for a Film)") and Toots & the Maytals ("Let Down"). But is that enough to save this collection from novelty? Contrary to customary Book by Its Cover practice, we had to give Radiodreada spin to find out. The results are enjoyable, if confounding. Open-minded Radiohead and reggae fans -- plus the simply curious -- should get a real kick out of Radiodread, even if it's no easier to pin down than the original. Really, that's a compliment to both Radiohead and the Easy Star All-Stars. Returning next Wednesday: more judging of albums by their art.